Microsoft creates new ‘Halo’ Xbox division

Microsoft has created an entire unit around its most popular Xbox 360 video game series: “Halo.” The unit is called 343 Industries, and any hardcore “Halo” gamer would know it’s named after the series’ quirky 343 Guilty Spark character.

I had to look that up.

Anyway, 343 Industries is working with several partners to develop a “Halo” anime short-film series called “Halo Legends.” Preview episodes will soon be available via Xbox Live, and the series will be distributed by Warner Home Video, according to a Microsoft news release.

“We’ve seen the world through Master Chief’s eyes, and we’ve experienced facets of the universe through a variety of literary prisms,” Frank O’Connor, the “Halo” franchise development director, said in the release. “But now we get to watch new tales unfold in really rich, visually dynamic ways. I think anime fans and ‘Halo’ fans alike are in for a real treat.”

Shinji Aramaki, acclaimed anime director and creative director for “Halo Legends,” said in the announcement that the “Halo” characters – including protagonist Master Chief – are a “very natural fit for anime.”

343 Industries is now the part of Microsoft Game Studios that “oversees the ‘Halo’ franchise, including novels, comics, licensed collectibles, apparel and more,” the release states. The division is brand new – Microsoft filed a trademark application for “343 Industries” on July 14, and it hasn’t yet been approved.

A 343 Industries spokesperson was not immediately available to five further details. Check back soon.